Yomi and the Fury of Ninki Nanka
illustrations by
What’s inside...
A fun, fresh and fast-paced series based on African mythology, YOMI is an adventure full of heart and humour. Yomi and her younger brother Kayode are supposed to be on the trip of a lifetime visiting The Gambia with their Uncle Olu. Instead, their uncle's work has made this the most boring vacation ever. But things take an exciting turn when Yomi and Kayode encounter Nkara – magnificent creatures from African folklore they have heard stories about all their lives. Now, they’re about to embark on an unforgettable adventure meeting these creatures for real!
Age
6-9
Length
250 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think Yomi felt when she first encountered the Ninki Nanka? How would you feel in that situation?
Why do you think Yomi decided to face the Ninki Nanka? What does that tell us about her character?
How did Yomi's friends and community help her in her journey? Can you think of a time when you helped someone or someone helped you?
What was your favorite part of the book, and why?
If you could change one thing in the story, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Engage your child's imagination by asking them to draw their favorite scene from the book. This can help them express their understanding and emotions connected to the story. During discussions, validate your child’s feelings and thoughts about the characters and events to reinforce their ability to empathize and analyze. Encourage them to relate the story to their own experiences, which can deepen their connection to the book’s themes and enhance personal growth.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of danger
Explanation: Yomi displays bravery when confronting the mythical creature Ninki Nanka, despite feeling frightened.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of facing their fears and standing up in challenging situations, which can apply to tackling new experiences or dealing with bullying.
Example Lesson: Empathy towards others
Explanation: Yomi shows understanding and compassion towards characters who are affected by the Fury of Ninki Nanka.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of considering other people's feelings and circumstances, fostering kindness and cooperative behaviors in school or at play.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: The protagonist, Yomi, uses clever thinking and resourcefulness to navigate the difficulties posed by the mythical creature.
Real-World Application: Children learn to think critically and creatively when faced with problems, which is a beneficial skill in academic settings and personal interactions.
Example Lesson: Perseverance through adversity
Explanation: Despite numerous setbacks, Yomi persists in her quest, demonstrating resilience.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to keep trying despite difficulties, which can be applied to their educational pursuits or learning new skills.
Example Lesson: Cultural awareness
Explanation: The story introduces elements of African folklore, particularly through the myth of Ninki Nanka.
Real-World Application: Children gain exposure to and respect for cultural diversity, enhancing their global awareness and social inclusion.